Category: Plant Spotlights

Western PA Wild Ones

We are a local chapter of the “Wild Ones: Native Plants, Natural Landscapes” which promotes environmentally sound landscaping practices to preserve biodiversity through the preservation, restoration and establishment of native plant communities.”

We are located in Western Pennsylvania in the Pittsburgh area. We love native plants, environment, and collaborating with like-minded folks.

21 Magical Native Violets You Can Grow in Western Pennsylvania

Violets (Viola spp.) are a host plants for five fritillaries in western Pennsylvania, four of which are common to all violets and one, regal fritillary, is hosted by the bird-foot violet (Viola pedata). In the spring, violets have white, blue, violet, and yellow flowers. These herbs, which provide taller structure, can be a vital part […] Continue reading "21 Magical Native Violets You Can Grow in Western Pennsylvania"

7 Host Flowers & Bushes of Native Insect Larvae

Guest post by Ryan Scanlon with Q&A Landscaping. Q&A supports native biodiversity by installing hundreds of native flowers, shrubs, & trees every year. With the unending naturalization of imported plants, planting native bushes and perennials are important in sustaining (and saving) natural wildlife. But, there could be more light shed on planting specific hosts that […] Continue reading "7 Host Flowers & Bushes of Native Insect Larvae"

21 Delectable Goldenrods (Solidago spp.) to Grow in Your Allegheny County, PA Butterfly Garden

Goldenrods are an important nectar source for insects in the late summer and fall and can be a vital part of your butterfly garden in Allegheny County. The genus name, Solidago, derives from the Latin words, Solidus and ago, which together mean to make (ago) whole (Solidus). This meaning comes from the medicinal uses of […] Continue reading "21 Delectable Goldenrods (Solidago spp.) to Grow in Your Allegheny County, PA Butterfly Garden"